If you’ve recently decided to start riding lessons — congratulations! You are about to enter an entirely new world and join a community that connects people from all around the globe over a shared love for horses. Before you can sit in the saddle for the first time, though, you must have the proper gear to keep you safe and comfortable during your ride.
The first and most important piece of equipment to purchase is a well-fitted helmet designed specifically for equestrian activities — bicycle or other helmets are not appropriate in this case. In this high-impact sport, wearing a helmet is the easiest way to mitigate the risk of injuries should you fall off. It can only be effective if it fits properly.
Your helmet should be snug but not too tight. A helmet that is too loose can move on a rider’s head if a horse trips, takes a poor distance to a jump or spooks, which could block your vision or allow the helmet to slip off your head. A helmet that is overly tight may rest too high on the head and forehead, leaving these areas unprotected.
Beyond the basic models, many helmet brands have now adopted Mips technology. Designed by a brain surgeon and biomechanics scientist, the Mips Safety System is an insert designed to allow for a small amount of movement on impact. Used for snowboarding, motorcycling, cycling, skiing, climbing and equestrian helmets, this feature helps to “redirect rotational motion away from the head” and can reduce the severity of a head injury. Helmets with Mips typically cost slightly more compared to those without, but many riders feel the higher price tag is worth the additional layer of protection.
Another consideration is how you’ll wear your hair, as this can significantly impact the fit of your helmet. Most riders just starting out will opt to pull their long hair into a low ponytail or a braid. If you decide later to start horse showing, long hair is traditionally tucked under the helmet and secured with a hairnet. It’s important to try your helmet on with the hairstyle you plan to ride in because if you change your mind later, the helmet may become too loose or too tight.
When shopping for a helmet, a store associate will conduct several tests to see which models fit best. The helmet shouldn’t move or wiggle when you shake your head, even without the chinstrap on. You should not be able to fit a full finger between the helmet and your head all the way around the circumference; any gaps felt may mean your helmet is not the size or right shape for your head. Some people have more oval-shaped or round-shaped heads; likewise, some helmet brands fit a certain head shape better.
Finally, always remember to secure your chinstrap before mounting. Tighten it to where you could fit just one finger between it and your chin. This step ensures the helmet stays in place on impact and protects your head as it’s meant to.
Our Picks: Our favorite helmet brands for the beginner rider are Ovation, Troxel, and Shires. All three are trusted names in the industry and offer several stylish helmet models, both with and without Mips technology, at an affordable price point. Click the links below to shop our favorites online, or visit us in store for additional options and assistance.
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Troxel Youngster Toddler Helmet: $89.99
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Shires Karben Matteo Riding Helmet: $59.99
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Ovation Deluxe Schooler Helmet: $83.99
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Troxel Spirit Helmet with Mips: $117.99
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Troxel Spirit Helmet: $79.99
The next step to getting in the saddle is purchasing boots. It’s crucial to choose footwear that is sleek, not bulky, so that you can easily remove your foot from the stirrup. All footwear should have a small heel around three-quarters of an inch thick, which prevents your foot from slipping through the stirrups entirely and getting stuck.
There are many styles and options of riding boots available, but for someone just starting out, paddock boots are a great choice. Paddock boots are short, ending just above the ankle, and usually zip up the front of the shoe. They are structured enough to support your foot and protect your toes should a horse step on you, but pliable enough to bend with your ankle in the stirrup. Wear socks that come higher than the boot to prevent any uncomfortable rubbing on the back of the calf.
Boots can come in either synthetic or real leather. Real leather tends to be more durable and supple, molding to the rider’s foot over time, but comes with a higher price tag and requires more maintenance to keep them in good shape. Synthetic leather boots are typically more affordable and easier to care for, but they may need to be replaced more frequently. For a new equestrian riding just a couple times per week, synthetic leather is a great option that balances quality with affordability.
Our Picks: Moretta Footwear, Ovation, and Equinavia are our brand picks for the beginner rider, as all offer a synthetic option at an affordable price point:
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Equinavia Tilda Kids Synthetic Zip Paddock Boots: $49.99
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Ovation Quantum Kids Synthetic Zip Paddock Boots: $54.99
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Moretta Clio Paddock Boot: $59.99
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Ovation Quantum Womens Synthetic Zip Paddock Boots: $60.99
Still unsure where to start? Saddlers Row would be thrilled to help outfit you for the barn with a wide range of helmets, boots, apparel, and more, plus expert advice from seasoned sales associates. Stop by the store or give us a call for help finding exactly what works for you. Also, shop our favorites for beginner riders in store or online in “The Starting Point”.
By: Maggie Markiewicz